Erik ten Hag emphasized the recent standout performances of Harry Maguire and Scott McTominay as a roadmap for Manchester United players aiming to secure a spot in the starting lineup. Their exemplary contributions serve as inspiration for those seeking a coveted place on the team.
After a shaky start to the season, Manchester United found stability with four wins in five games, providing much-needed relief for manager Erik ten Hag. Recognized for his team’s outstanding November performance, Ten Hag secured the Premier League’s Manager of the Month award with a flawless 100% record during that period.
Facing intense criticism and on the brink of a club exit during the close season, defender Maguire experienced a decline in the pecking order. However, he chose to stay and fought his way back to reclaim his place in the team.
Ultimately, injuries to Ten Hag’s first-choice defenders paved the way for Maguire’s return. The English center-back played a pivotal role, contributing to three clean sheets and earning the prestigious Player of the Month award for his outstanding performances.
“We have a squad and there’s internal competition. If you want to have a successful season you need more than 11 players. It will change throughout the season,” Ten Hag told reporters ahead of Saturday’s home game against Bournemouth.
“Scott and Harry played themselves into the team. That’s the dedication you expect from every player.”
McTominay, with five league goals, stands as the club’s top scorer, surpassing the combined goal tally of all United’s forwards. Ten Hag expressed no surprise at the Scotland international’s adeptness in front of goal.
“From the first moment I saw Scott, he has a very good smell to get in the box and he’s a very good finisher,” he said.
“That’s not a surprise. When we get the balls there, he will finish.”
In contrast, England forward Marcus Rashford has found the net only twice this campaign, a notable contrast to his impressive 30-goal performance across all competitions last season for United. Despite being dropped from the starting lineup against Chelsea, Ten Hag remains confident that the 26-year-old will regain his form in the near future.
“Rashford is an incredibly good player. You can’t do it with 11 players and he can’t play every game. He’s not in the form he was last year but I’m sure he will get there,” he said.
“It’s up to the players (to get back into the team). The team will line themselves up and the best players who form the best team will play.”
